Winter white water rafting in New Zealand is the adventure of a lifetime, and for those who come to Kaituna Cascades for rafting expeditions in Rotorua, there’s no better rainy day activity for Rotorua visitors. Certainly, just because the weather is chilly, doesn’t mean you have to miss out! However, you do have to wear the appropriate cold weather gear – especially if you’re rafting in the winter.

If you’re uncertain about what to wear rafting in cold weather, we at Kaituna Cascades recommend the following clothing for a winter expedition:

1. A Thermal Base Layer

Winter rafting requires a thermal base layer, including a high-quality thermal top and bottoms, as the very first item of clothing you should be wearing to your expedition. Winter activities always require several layers to retain warmth and keep you safe and comfortable, even if you get splashed with freezing water! Thermal layers wick moisture away from your skin, and have excellent insulative properties.

2. A Wetsuit

Depending on the temperature and water conditions at the time of your winter white water rafting trip, your final layers of clothing should begin with a wetsuit or a drysuit.

Most white water rafters wear a 3mm to 5mm wetsuit to remain warm in the cold water of rivers such as Kaituna, Wairoa and Rangitaiki.

3. A Lightweight Fleece Jacket

Next, you should wear a lightweight fleece jacket as another insulating layer to trap your body heat. This layer mustn’t be bulky or stuffy, but allow for the flexibility and movement needed to raft, as a wetsuit should be worn underneath!

4. Neoprene Booties

Keeping your feet warm as you raft is essential to maintaining a stable body temperature. Neoprene is the best material to lock in heat and retain flexibility of movement. It also provides rafters with good traction for their feet, as rafts can get fairly slippery!

Looking to embark on a winter white water rafting expedition for yourself? Contact Kaituna Cascades at your earliest opportunity! Our expeditions across Rotorua and beyond are famous for exciting rapids and awe-inspiring views of the surrounding landscapes. All are delivered by an experienced, qualified instructor that you can trust.